Building Methods and Materials for Noise Control

Noise control is one of the most important things to consider when constructing a building. From blocking the sounds of loud machinery, to ensuring those within the building are able to comfortably work or live their lives without needing headphones on 24/7: you have to take it seriously.

If you need to kill the volume in a building but aren't sure where to start, these are the best methods and materials to keep in mind.

Keeping an Eye on Acoustics

Acoustics are the vibration of air as it passes from an instrument, person, animal, or item. These can become more noticeable and louder in spaces with fewer tools to stop them. This is why empty rooms with hardwood floors and high ceilings sound the best.

You don't have to get rid of high ceilings altogether. It's just important that if you have these ceilings, they're paired with the best materials for sound absorption you can find. This will turn the volume down and allow a space to feel more intimate.

Blocking Out Volume With Dampers

Volume dampers stop air from releasing from or entering a property. These are usually built into the HVAC system and can help air flow through a building.

The best part about these tools is they can also help stop noise from traveling between spaces. By redirecting or shutting them off in specific areas, you can effectively mute a portion of the building and allow as much noise as possible without disturbing the rest of the building.

This can stop your building from letting out a ton of noise if you have loud machinery, or stop these types of noises from getting into your building.

Insulation Can Cancel Noise

Insulation is king when it comes to volume control! By absorbing as much noise as possible, insulation in walls and ceilings can make any sounds within a space disappear. This material also can keep the temperature as regulated as possible, allowing your heating and cooling bills to plummet.

When working on your building, check on your insulation levels and ensure you have good insulation that will help soundproof your entire facility.

Panels Are Tried and True

Acoustic panels are one of the best things you can do to stop noise from traveling through. These panels absorb sound like a sponge and are very effective. In Microsoft's headquarters in Redmond, Washington, a room was designed using acoustic panels that suck out all sound and produce no echo. This 'anechoic' chamber is disturbingly interesting and a great way to see how well acoustic panels can work.

Think About Location Early On

Where are you building this property? Although you may work hard creating the perfect soundproof interior, if it's just 500 feet from a busy highway, it will not help. Consider where you're building before you do anything else.

If you have to be near a highway or busy road, consider building a treeline between your building and that highway. Not only will this beautify the space and allow views from windows to look better than a random road, but it will also create a sound buffer.

Your location should also avoid being close to any airport. Many forget this point and buy property within ten miles of an airport directly under the main flight path. This can be great if you're coming and going a lot, but it's terrible for any control over what noises happen within the building.

Cheaper Windows Leak Sound

The cheaper your windows are, the easier it'll be for sound to leak in or out. Don't allow this to happen to your property! Invest in good windows and doors that have a tight seal and don't allow the transmission of air or noise. This is another tip that will help your HVAC system in the long run, but it's an important one to consider.

Flooring Materials Can Change Everything

What type of floor are you considering? Although carpet is one of the easiest materials for sound absorption, acoustical underlayment can allow floors to take it to another level. This means you don't have to give up the style or appearance you want, but you can still have a high level of sound absorption you wouldn't find otherwise.

Consider the Layout of Your Building

When considering the layout for your building, you want to make sure you place areas that need the most silence possible in spaces furthest away from noise. Whether your building is a major manufacturing plant and you want your noise to be kept away from residential areas on nearby land, or you’re building residential and want quieter apartments, placement means everything.

Your Building Can Be Soundproof

Whether this is a multi-family building or a recording company's headquarters, if you want to soundproof it: these methods and materials are the best you'll find. Consider using some of these when you're updating your property.